Electrically-powered programmable storage containers

ABSTRACT

A package deposit enclosure designed for public use is powered by an efficient storage battery and photovoltaic cell array. These unique features allow the package deposit enclosure to be placed in locations where no power is available, but where there is frequent human traffic. Sensing and wireless data communication features allow the unit to be emptied less often than typical package delivery enclosures. Wireless communication also allows users&#39; access to real-time information. On board power enables other functions, such as lighting and audio, to enhance device functionality.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a Continuation of and claims priority to copending U.S. Utilityapplication Ser. No. 12/908,497, filed Oct. 20, 2010, which is acontinuation of Ser. No. 11/760,381, filed Jun. 8, 2007, which is aContinuation-in-Part (CIP) of and claims priority to U.S. Utilityapplication Ser. No. 11/800,572, filed May 7, 2007, now abandoned, whichis a CIP of and claims priority to U.S. Utility application Ser. No.11/584,822, filed on Oct. 23, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,481,159 issuedJan. 27, 2009, which is a CIP of and claims priority to U.S. Utilityapplication Ser. No. 10/864,566, filed on Jun. 9, 2004, now U.S. Pat.No. 7,124,680 issued Oct. 24, 2006, which claims priority to ProvisionalPatent Application No. 60/476,832, filed on Jun. 9, 2003, all of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is directed towards package delivery enclosures and moreparticularly to an apparatus and method for solar-powered deliverycontainers with embedded programmable logic controllers and sensors todetermine package deposits, characteristics and contents.

BACKGROUND

Mail boxes and other package delivery containers are important items atany location where there are people mailing packages, to avoid thepeople having to carry packages with them to a centralized postal orshipping facility. Many cities and towns allow package drop boxes inmany locations such as street corners and most users are accustomed tousing such containers, provided that they are convenient and accessible.However, the containers require periodic emptying by postal or deliveryservice personnel, and this requires that personnel spend time andequipment traveling, emptying and hauling from the locations. Often,this travel occurs when there are few or no packages to collect.Additionally, package weight and size is not known until the packagecollector visits the drop box, at which time it is too late to plan forheavy of unwieldy loads. Finally, the public does not often know whenpackages are to be collected, and thus they are unable to make adecision about depositing their package in the container or traveling toa central facility for the fastest shipping of their package. Further,the public occasionally needs instructions on how to mail itemsproperly. This is a cause for great inefficiency, unnecessary fuelconsumption and monetary expenditures. In addition, dangerous situationswhereby malicious users insert explosive or infectious substances can beavoided by this invention because solar-powered programmable logiccontrollers attached to sensors can alert personnel to the danger. Also,many of these containers contain shipping supplies, such as envelopes;address labels and the like, which are critical to convenient mailing.At times, these envelopes and other items are all used or stolen, so thepublic has no access to them. This makes mailing a package inconvenientor impossible. Finally, as some drop boxes require payment, the adventof solar-powered logic controllers, scanners and transmitters can enablepayment options at the box, providing greater user convenience.

Package collection can be streamlined and improved with solar-powered“smart package delivery containers,” which have programmable circuitrywhich enables the use of sensors, scanners, transmitters and receiversto foster efficient and easy package deposit, recognition and datatransfer. With real-time knowledge of drop box “fullness,” packagedestination, weight information, on-site envelope and label inventoryand other package characteristics, programmable package deliverycontainers can save money by saving staff time, and can help to conservefuel by reducing collection frequency, and thus vehicle travel time. Thepresent invention can make mailing packages more convenient by helpingstaff ensure that envelopes, address labels and other necessary suppliesare in stock, and it can provide real-time information to both staff andusers, which makes the process more convenient and accessible. Prior artpackage enclosures either do not have electricity at all, or theyrequire AC electricity, which limits them to locations convenientlyattached to the electricity grid. This limits the location of suchelectricity-enabled drop boxes. Thus, prior art drop boxes arecharacteristically non-powered, or they are confined to areas whereelectrical connections are feasible and cost-effective.

There is a need for powered package holding enclosures in remotesettings and high-traffic areas, that will allow people to convenientlymail packages, but that provide other information for emptying packageenclosures safely and only when needed or optimal.

SUMMARY

The present invention uses the novel approach of using stored energy togather and send data on package deliveries and collections. In oneembodiment, the stored energy is solar energy. Solar energy is a cleansource of power, and also it enables package recognition in remotelocations where other forms of power are impractical and uneconomical.Often, it is impractical and uneconomical to connect grid power to apackage delivery container located even at a relatively close distanceto an electricity source, for example, across the street from a retailestablishment. Also, in many cases, it is impractical to replace orrecharge batteries.

This invention provides a low cost device and method for receiving andrecognizing packages and package features and transmitting or receivingvaluable information to and from route planners and schedulers usingstored photovoltaic energy. The primary embodiment of the presentinvention is formed to efficiently and safely collect solar energy,efficiently store said energy and as needed, use the stored energy torun sensors and other electrical devices to collect and distribute data.The solar collector typically is a photovoltaic (PV) apparatus which isconnected to a storage device, such as a battery, capacitor or fuelcell. Alternatively, since the device is constructed to be energyefficient, regular charging of batteries may be used in some situationsto provide power for the device. Mechanical means of energy storage mayinclude springs, pneumatic and hydraulic pressure, among others. Theapparatus uses stored energy to intermittently detect packages, packagecharacteristics and contacts. In another embodiment, the device suppliesAC electricity to an AC-powered package delivery container by changingDC power from the PV array into AC electricity by means of an inverter.

In an illustrative embodiment, the electronics of the container areenclosed in a compartment adjacent to the package chamber. Neithercompartment is accessible from the outside without a key, to preventtampering and/or user injury.

The battery and electronics compartments are sealed from water toprotect the enclosed electronics from the elements, and the batterycompartment is vented separately from the electronics and motorcompartments to allow for hydrogen gas to escape safely, as theflammable gas can be produced during charging of many types ofbatteries. The PV array is protected from weather and vandalism by acovering constructed typically of durable plastic or a metal grate. Thebattery is stored at the bottom of the compartment, while the hydrogenvent is located above the battery chamber to allow hydrogen gas to riseand escape the chamber without coming into contact with sparks from thecircuits or electronics compartments or from static energy.

The package insertion door is monitored while a package is being mailed.A sensor in communication with the insertion door senses packagedelivery, use of the insertion door, and communicates this data to theprocessor, which counts packages being delivered, along with time ofdelivery and other information, which may include weight, destination,mailer and recipient name and address, etc. The information may begathered through a barcode scanner. The insertion door is constructed toblock users from reaching into the package compartment and removingpackages. In the illustrative embodiment, this lockout is passive anddoes not require energy to operate Similar contraptions are seen onmailboxes, and prevent the user from access to the inner chamber of thedevice. Another door which provides access to a compartment containingenvelopes is also monitored by sensors, and data on its use is relayedto the processor. This compartment may also hold address labels,instructions, boxes, etc. Monitoring envelope inventories enablespersonnel to ensure adequate supply in each enclosure. Only packagecollection personnel can access the package chamber, the envelopeschamber and electronics chambers. An access door is hingedly attached toallow the package collection personnel to have unimpeded access to theenclosures.

In this embodiment, data relayed to the processor by the insertion doorand enveloped door are gathered and intermittently relayed by a wirelesstransmitter to staff. By monitoring the usage of the container, awireless communication mechanism can relay this information to thepackage collection personnel so that unneeded visits are avoided.Communication may be relayed with a wireless transmitter or by aphysical indicator, such as an indicator lamp. Stored power is also usedto count envelopes used or to otherwise help maintain adequateinventory, to provide lighting for users who need to read instructionsor write address labels or the like at night, and to provide for voicerecognition devices and voice operated instructions for the user. Inthis embodiment, the sensors monitoring the access doors engage theprocessor, which turns on other sensors, by activating relays, to engagein processes like counting envelopes or packages. This is done to reduceenergy consumption from sensors being on continuously. In otherembodiments, container use and package contents can be collected byother means, such as internal scales, photoeye sensors, limit switches,or other sensors, without changing the nature of the device. This datasaves time and money by allowing the collection personnel to schedulecollections according to demand.

Advantages of the present invention include a package deposit containerwhich can be located in remote places that don't have access to ACpower, which also require many fewer visits for emptying, while reducingwasted time and inconveniences associated with lack of stock ofenvelopes, labels and other supplies which must be kept in inventory forconvenient package deposits.

Another advantage of the present invention is that information relayedto the container by staff can be displayed to users. Information such aswhen collectors are scheduled to arrive is important for convenientpackage mailing.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it is optimized towork more often during times of most usage. Peoples' use of the devicewill occur most often during daylight hours, and therefore the unit haspower from daylight as needed to perform sensing. Further, since manyusers deliver packages at night, the device will provide lighting sousers can easily see the instructions, the envelopes, the labels and soforth. In addition, since the processor is programmed to turn offsensors and other electronics when they are not used, to be more energyefficient, the energy storage will last a long time, reducing the needfor expensive solar panels or time-consuming battery replacements.Another advantage is that it is programmed to track voltage and batteryperformance over a period of time, and has the ability to send awireless message if the battery or sunlight are insufficient. Lightingcan also be used to allow users to more easily identify the container.Another advantage of the present invention is that it can power voicerecognition devices or can relay audible messages to the user, whichassists the user in understanding instructions, particularly if the useris visually-impaired. Audible or visible package deposit confirmationprovides customers with an important assurance that their package hasbeen received. Another advantage of the present invention is that avoice module can be powered by the stored energy, activated by the useropening the insertion door or using other features, such as theenvelopes door or an “on” button, and the volume of the speaker can beadjusted to meet the environment. For example, the volume would be sethigher in noisy street corners, while it would be set lower in an officebuilding. Finally, since the battery provides power at night, thetransmitter/receiver can send or receive long messages at night whencellular communications are cheaper.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present inventionwill be more fully understood from the following detailed description ofillustrative embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a package deposit enclosure with insertion door,envelopes door, removal door and several internal components;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective sectional view of the present invention,package chamber, and several internal components;

FIG. 3 is a perspective sectional view of several components;

FIG. 4 is a schematic of one embodiment of an electrical system;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example system showing some internal components;and

FIG. 6 illustrates another view of an example system showing variouscomponents.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed towards a package depost andcollection enclosure with integrated battery storage and solar storagemechanism for public use. The generally rectangular metal unit has asolar panel on the top to attract maximum sunlight. The unit typicallyresembles package containers currently in use, with respect toaesthetics, usage and size.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view detailing outer container 24,insertion door 22, Envelopes and Mailers door 21, Envelopes and Mailersshelves 20, Package Removal Door 26, showing the relationship betweenthe doors and compartments according to this embodiment of the presentinvention. A photovoltaic (PV) cell array 32 is mounted on top of theunit, covering part of it. In one embodiment, cells 32 produce enoughpower for the average number of 15 data logging events and wireless datatransmissions per day. The battery 36, shown in FIG. 2, has enoughenergy storage to provide for usage through several weeks ofintermittent sunlight, to provide adequate reserve power for periods ofbad weather. The cells are wired to the energy storage system, whichstores power to drive the sensors and Programmable Logic Controller PLC44. Status indicator lamps 60, FIGS. 3 and 4, provide visual means ofdisplaying information such as a system malfunction or to indicate thelevel of bin capacity used and available or other notices, such as “lowbattery,” “bin collected,” “envelopes empty,” “device broken,” or othermessages. An insertion door 22 acts to prevent unauthorized use becauseit can lock out the user from the insertion door. In one embodiment, theinsertion door lock is opened when it receives a message from PLC 44. Inthis embodiment, PLC will send a message to open the insertion door whenit receives input from a Barcode Scanner 68, FIG. 4. This input may begiven when, for example, a package with the appropriate Bar Code isplaced in front of the scanner and the “ON Button,” 67 in FIG. 4, ispressed by the user. In an alternative embodiment, the device is turnedon when the Insertion Door 22 is opened or when the ON Button ispressed.

More details are provided with the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG.3. The Photovoltaic (PV) array 32 is positioned on top of the device formaximum sunlight exposure. The PV array 32 may also be placed on othersides of the device to increase exposure to the sun when the sun islower on the horizon or when the container is placed in a location witha roof overhead, or alternatively, the PV may reside outside of thecontainer and be attached to the container of separate battery enclosureonly by an electric cable. The PV array 32 may be optimally placed on anangle to prevent it from being covered by snow or debris. Further, theangle may be used to increase sunlight exposure based on azimuth of thesun across the sky. For example a PV array can be arranged to receivethe most southern exposure during the day. Alternatively, the PV array32 may be pivotally mounted and powered in order to rotate and trackmaximum sunlight exposure. Although the PV array 32 is shown attached tothe unit, the PV array may also be separately located from the deviceand electrically connected. The PV array may alternatively be locatedinside the outer container 24, and the outer cover may be constructed toallow sunlight into the protected area where the PV resides. The PVarray may otherwise be mounted in a location on or outside the outercontainer accessible by light via a reflective surface such as a mirror,and inaccessible by vandals, negligent operators and animals. The angleof the PV array 32 can be flat but could be positioned at any angle orcould be able to be adjusted so that the installer of the enclosure canset the solar panel angle for optimal solar collection.

The PV array 32 is optimally placed between layers of foam, to absorbshock in the event that the machine is bumped or tipped. Additionally,there can be a curved plastic, such as a Lexan® panel or layers ofLexan® over PV array 32 to protect PV array 32 from vandals or negligentuse. The PV array 32 can be covered by a curved PV Cell Array Cover 35,FIG. 1., that can be cost-effectively replaced. Additionally, theplastic panel layers will shed water and snow. In one embodiment,several layers of plastic coating, or other suitable material, may beapplied during manufacturing such that one layer can be removed at atime, providing several layers of protection against vandalism, graffitiand scratches. For example, when one layer is used up, it is peeled awayand a new, clean layer is present.

The storage battery or batteries 36 can be upsized or downsized fordifferent climates, energy demands, or for or auxiliary functions, suchas providing usable AC electricity through an inverter. The battery orbatteries may also be stored separately from the container. Theelectronics compartments are preferably located in a weather-proof area37 of the container. Electronic components can include a PLC, batterycharging controller, user interface, audio speaker, and sensors, as willbe described below. The access door to the electronics area 37 iskey-lockable. When unlocked, the battery 36 will preferably beautomatically disengaged.

In the illustrative embodiment, a deep cycle battery 36 is employed todrive photoeye or limit switch sensors for Envelopes Door 21, FIG. 1 andEnvelopes Shelf Sensor 40, FIG. 3, which sense the presence or absenceof the envelopes, mailers, labels and other important shipping andpackaging material. Alternatively, the Envelope Shelf Sensors 40, FIG.3, may sense the level of inventory in the Envelopes Shelves 20, FIG. 1.The battery 36, FIG. 2, may also be used to power Envelope Door Sensor23 for the envelope compartments and Sensors for Insert Door 25 tomonitor the insertion door in FIG. 2.

A control apparatus for the illustrative embodiment is shown in FIG. 4.The programmable logic controller 44 is a central microprocessor whichmanages all operations, detects all inputs and provides outputs forrunning the device. It controls power to the photoeyes 42 and 43, FIG.4, by relays or contactors, (mechanical or solid-state) or otherswitching means. In different embodiments, photoeyes may be used inplace of limit switches or vice versa, without changing the nature ofthe present invention. A tilt-sensor 46 is located above the packagechamber 27, FIG. 2, and is actuated when the device is vandalized ortipped by a car or accident. Photoeyes 42 and 43, FIG. 4, are turned onwhen PLC 44 senses that the Insert Door or Envelope Door has beenopened, or alternatively when the On Button has been pressed, to saveenergy used sensing objects unnecessarily. When turned on, the photoeyesor limit switch sensors will determine whether envelopes block the lightrays between this photo-eye sensor and a reflector on the opposite sideof the channel above the envelope chamber or when the limit switches arepressed. The photo-eyes signal the programmable logic controller (PLC)44 when envelopes block the light beam for a measured amount of time,indicating that envelopes are present. When envelopes are not present, amessage will be sent by the wireless transmitter/receiver 66 connectedto the PLC 44 as shown schematically in FIG. 4. Other sensors may beused to detect the number of uses of the insertion door 22 in FIG. 1 orthe Envelope door 21 in FIG. 1. In an alternative embodiment, a mirrorsystem may be implemented instead of a photo-eye transmitter andreceiver to reduce wiring and wire installation labor costs.

Pressure sensors 48, FIG. 4, may be used instead of photoeye sensors,and alternatively are used to sense envelope presence, absence orinventory levels. Tilt Sensor 46, can transmit a message to PLC 44 inFIG. 4 if the device has been vandalized, stolen or tipped over. Adisplay 40 in FIG. 4 may be used to display messages to users. Thesemessages may be transmitted to the PLC 44 from the wirelesstransmitter/receiver or may be programmed into the PLC manually byservice personnel. Also in FIG. 4, in addition to a display, StatusLamps 60, FIGS. 3 and 4, may be used to convey messages including butnot limited to “on,” “low battery,” “collected,” and “broken.” Lamps 61may be turned on by the PLC 44 when ambient light is low, or when usersare in need of light to aid in seeing forms to fill out or in readinginstructions. Also, an Audio Speaker 62 in FIG. 4 may be used to conveymessages. The PLC 44 will enable Audio levels to be controlled andprogrammed.

PV Array 32 in FIG. 4 is connected to a charge controller, whichcontrols charging to the battery 36. An inverter 37 is connected to thebattery to provide auxiliary power through a supply port 38 or power toAC devices, as diagrammed schematically in FIG. 4. Finally, there is amanual reset switch 56 connected to the PLC 44 in FIG. 4.

In this embodiment, the projected PV array output is 10 Watts Peak, andwill generate up to 30 Watt-hours of energy per day, given an average of3 hours of full sunlight available per day. Sunlight energy is collectedin the PV Array 32, FIG. 4, and is converted by the charge controller33, into a useful battery charging current and voltage. Battery reservewill be approximately 100 Watt-hours, and each data transmission willuse approximately 1/10^(th) Watt-hours. Thus, the energy reserve in theillustrative embodiment is enough to run up to 1,000 messagetransmission cycles. In many situations, it may be preferable andcost-effective not to use a PV Array, but rather to charge batteriesoff-site and swap these charged batteries into the device as needed. Inthis case, the battery may be slightly larger than described above. Thecontroller will be programmed to permit data transmission cycles andlighting such that battery over-discharge and thus battery damage isavoided. The controller will also be programmed to sense a batterylosing capacity and to send a final data transmission before the batteryloses power, warning personnel that battery and therefore the system isclose to malfunction.

A feature of another illustrative embodiment is that the PLC 44, when incharging mode, can act as a maximum power tracker, regulating thecharging of the battery from the PV array. The power tracker has theability to vary the level of voltage and amperage based on thecharacteristics of the PV array, the sunlight level and the batterycondition. The power tracker has the ability to balance off current andvoltage to optimize battery 36 charging. The PLC 44 has the ability tooptimize the charging regimen of the batteries 36, by tracking the levelof photovoltaic energy available and the battery charge. When thebattery 36 is fully discharged, the controller 44 will provide lowvoltage and high amperage. When the battery 36 is almost completelycharged, the controller 44 will provide a higher voltage and lowercurrent. When the battery is fully charged, the controller will notprovide any charge to the battery 36, or will simply provide a tricklecharge. Conversely, when the battery 36 is undercharged, the controller44 may delay or skip a data transmission or may limit lighting or audiountil adequate charge has been attained or until a new battery has beeninstalled. This serves to save battery life and prevent failure. Becauseof the ability for the controller 44 to optimize charging regimen andcontrol the data transmitter and lights, it serves a dual purpose.

This duty cycle is typically determined by low power timing circuitrycontained in the receptacle. It is modifiable on the unit, or isprogrammable by means of a wireless communication device or byelectrical connection between the programming device (i.e. computer) andthe PLC 44. The controller 44 can also include data logging features, toallow usage history to be stored for later analysis or transmitted inbulk.

Table 1 provides specifications for a system in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention.

TABLE 1 Physical Specs of Unit Size of Compartment Height of outercontainer 48.00 inches Height of Insertion door 10 inches Width of solararray 10.00 inches Length of solar array 10.00 inches

Certain embodiments may include additional controlling components. Forexample, a controlling component programmed to reduce or increase theclock speed (processor speed) to save energy may be implemented into PLC44. Logic of the controlling component slows the clock speed when nocycles are being run. During a period of high use, the clock speed ofthe PLC 44 runs fast so that data transmission or sensor monitoring canhappen quickly and accurately. Failure to slow clock speed of the PLCresults in wasted energy, and failure to speed clock speed can result inpackages being missed or mis-counted, or data transmission time can belengthened, increasing air-time costs. A microcontroller, such as a PICprocessor, may be is used in PLC 44. During data transmisison and sensoractivation, the processor operates at approximately 4 Mhz. Otherwise itoperates at approximately 32 Khz.

Additionally, a controlling component programmed to turn on sensors suchas pressure sensor 48 only as long as they need to be in order toproperly respond to the sensor signal may be implemented in PLC 44.Certain photo-eye sensors, such as photo-eye sensor 46, must be turnedon for a minimum period, for example 0.3 seconds, to reliably respond tothe input signal. This saves energy because the sensors consume energyonly when they are on. Logs may be stored in hard drive memory and sentby the wireless transmitter to staff. These logs may be uploadedwirelessly to a central server so status information to users via cellphone or email or SMS (text message) can be relayed.

Another feature may include a controlling component and door sensorprogrammed to engage photo-eye sensor 43 only when packages aredeposited, rather than at regular intervals, to save energy. Thecontrolling component is therefore programmed to trigger photo-eyesensor 43 after insertion door 22 has been opened or after Envelope Door21 is opened. In this embodiment, there is a transducer such as aninductive sensor or Hall Effect sensor, located on Insertion Door 22 orEnvelope Door 21, to allow for a signal to be sent to the controllingcomponent indicating each usage.

In one embodiment, the controlling component is programmed to shut downunused circuits within PLC 44. Specifically, the controlling componentis programmed to turn off the current sensor and relays when the bin isin monitoring mode and turned on when in compacting mode to save energy.Certain areas of the controlling component may be activated ordeactivated according to different methods. In certain embodiments theactivation of discrete controlling components is implemented througheither a MOSFET component, a relay or through different pins on theprocessor directly for areas of the circuit requiring lower current. Byconstantly monitoring and turning off circuits of the controller whenthose circuits are not required for operation, energy may be conserved.

Another embodiment includes a controlling component that is programmedto regulate the battery charger to eliminate battery charger energyconsumption when solar power is not sufficient enough to charge thebattery. The controlling component is programmed to actively monitorwattage from the solar panel and to turn off the controller when thewattage drops below a threshold voltage. The battery charger is onlyturned on when adequate voltage on the panel is reached, and off when itis not. Since many battery chargers require some activation energy fromthe battery to begin the charging process, the controlling component isprogrammed to supply the activation energy only when solar energy isavailable. Alternatively, a blocking diode may be used to keep currentfrom flowing from the battery to the battery charger. Thus, no energy isable to pass from the battery 36 to the battery charger; it is only ableto come from the PV array 32 when it has sufficient voltage to chargethe battery.

The battery charger typically requires activation energy to charge thebattery. Without this activation energy, it blocks any current fromgoing through the charger to the battery. By placing a resistor betweenthe positive lead of PV array 32 and positive lead of charger, the PVarray 32 can provide that activation energy when there is sun on the PVarray 32. Once operating, the charger is the lower resistance path, soenergy flows through the charger to the battery.

In one embodiment a information panel may be incorporated. Theinformation panel may be a lighted sign, a scrolling panel, or othermethod that may be used to display information or advertising. Theseinformation panels may be intermittent-use devices. The intermittentpowering may help control the energy budget because the panel can chargebetween cycles, similarly to the data transmitter mechanism. In anotherembodiment, the intermittent-use feature may be used in controlling thelighting of the device. Cycling the lighting at very rapid duty cyclesthat are invisible to the human eye, energy can be conserved. In analternative embodiment, the lighting may be pulse modulated at slowercycles, thereby conserving energy. In yet another embodiment, thesignage may be controllable via wireless receiver from a base location.For example, the base station may want to post an electronic messagesuch as an advertisement or emergency message on each receptacle, or amessage that, for example, the packages will next be collected at 2 PMon Tuesday.

Another illustrative embodiment includes a controlling component that isable to disengage energy draws when voltage is low. For example, in manysettings, the machine may be able to power lighted signs as discussedabove. The controlling component may programmed to disengage these signsfrom the electricity source (i.e. battery 36) when the voltage is low asa means of conserving energy for a data transmission or otherprioritized function.

A controlling component that is able to disengage electricity to themotors of a scrolling advertisement sign when there is not sufficientvoltage to power the signs' motors may be incorporated. The controllingcomponent may do this by powering a relay to connect electricity to thesign's motors only when there is sufficient voltage to power the sign.Additionally, the controlling component can be programmed to power thesign's motors only when advertising is beneficial, at lunch hour in abusy outdoor area, for example.

Another embodiment includes a controlling component that is programmedto search for the best source of energy. In a device that has theability to be plugged in, for example, the controlling component woulddefault to solar power source unless the machine is plugged in. Whenplugged in, the unit's energy-storing capability absorbs largefluctuations in energy use, which lowers the peak current that themachine draws. This is advantageous because utility-supplied electricitycharges are based on both total draw and peak draw. This feature wouldreduce peaks, resulting in lower electricity costs. For a unit that ischarged by a utility-supplied electrical source, the controller can havea real time clock installed to only charge the battery during “off peak”times, typically during the nighttime, when electricity rates are lowerthan in daytime. This may be accomplished with a controlling componentthat is programmed to engage and disengage relays to connect the bestpower source to the charging circuit. Alternatively, the relays may bewired to provide activation energy to the relay with the highest energy.

This present embodiment may be implemented in situations where units areplaced temporarily and then placed on a charger periodically. In othersituations where the unit is searching for the best source of energy, itmay be programmed to use sunlight whenever there is sufficient chargingcurrent and to use utility electricity when sunlight is not adequate tocharge the battery. Thus, it does not have to interpolate over time. Anefficient charging interpolator would use sunlight during the day, andutility power at night, if both are available all the time.Alternatively, when the battery is charged off-site and replacedperiodically, the PLC 44 will be able to determine the optimalreplacement frequency of the battery and may be able to display thatinformation on the display panel 40 or transmit the informationwirelessly via transmitter/receiver 66 in FIG. 4.

A controlling component and electronics that enables recharging of theenergy storage system by another source such as the collection truck maybe implemented in an additional embodiment. This is particularly usefulwhen machines are in storage.

In another embodiment, multiple containers according to the embodimentsdescribed herein can be placed adjacent to one another. This couldeither be in a very busy location that requires more than one container.

Another embodiment may include a controlling component that isprogrammed to track voltage over a period of time, and if voltage isfalling, the controlling component turns on an indicator telling usersthat the machine is placed in an unsatisfactory location or orientationand must be moved, or that the battery is failing and must be replaced.This is advantageous because there are natural peaks and valleys involtage that must be “averaged out” in order to determine if a locationis bad. By monitoring voltage over 2 weeks, cloudy weather lows andsunny weather highs can be incorporated into a calculation thatindicates placement optimization. Natural highs and lows can be averagedout over a 2 week period because inclement weather patterns rarely occurfor more than 2 weeks. Also, 2 weeks of energy storage is sufficient butis not overkill. So a 2 week period is an optimal time period todetermine placement optimization while monitoring over a longer periodwould be optimal to determine whether a battery is losing its ability toretain adequate charge.

In yet another embodiment, the controlling component can be programmedto allow for a variety of settings to be controlled by the staffpersonnel. In this embodiment, the controlling component receives asignal from a potentiometer which can be used to adjust the desiredlighting levels, voice volume, microphone sensitivity or other settingthat may be optimally adjusted from time to time, or location tolocation.

An additional embodiment includes means to generate energy from theinsertion door movement. In one embodiment, each time the door isopened, there is a piezoelectric element that generates current when thedoor is opened. Alternatively, the insertion door movement may actuate arotating flywheel, which then turns a generator, thereby producingcurrent.

Another embodiment incorporates a controlling component that isprogrammed to engage a relay to turn on a wireless transmitter when itneeds to transmit a “full” or “malfunction” signal. The controllingcomponent is programmed to disconnect the transmitter or receiver fromthe electrical system to save energy, and the electrical system isattached to the transmitter via relays so this disconnect is physicallypossible.

Another embodiment includes bomb-sensing logic in a controllingcomponent. The controlling component is programmed to engage a relay toturn on an explosives detector when the machine is used. The controllingcomponent is programmed to disconnect the detector from the electricalsystem to save energy, and the electrical system is attached to thedetector via relays so this disconnect is physically possible. Thedevice may be outfitted with a camera that is activated by the openingof the insertion door. The device may store a photo of everyone whodeposits packages or into the machine, or of a malicious vandal whokicks the unit or places lit paper in the device, for example in memorysuch as a flash memory device. If no malicious behavior is noticed, orthere is no need to store data in the device, the memory is dumped.Otherwise the photos may be wirelessly transmitted to assist authoritiesin catching the person who engaged in the malicious act.

Another embodiment includes other devices such as security monitoringcameras or emergency calling transmitters may be similarly controlled bythe controlling component and detached from the electricity supply tosave energy when they are not in use.

In yet another embodiment, an accelerometer may be implemented. Theaccelerometer watches for high forces in the device, indicating thepossibility of theft or vandalism. Upon detection of an unauthorizedevent, a signal may be sent to the device's owners so that they canrespond in a timely manner to repair the machine and ensure that it isnot in a state that would be dangerous to people. In an alternativeembodiment, a tracking system, such as a global positioning system(“GPS”) or other suitable tracking device may be implemented. Thesedevices may be switched on and off by the PLC, to enable the device whenit is being used, and to disable the device when it is not being used,to reduce energy consumption.

Additionally, in another embodiment a controlling component isprogrammed to engage a solenoid or other actuator which locks theinsertion door when the package chamber is full. This prevents overflowfrom the bin.

In an additional embodiment, the device may include certain fitmentsthat allow for the automated removal of the removable bin. The fitmentmay include a bar or a handle at certain height, or reinforcing ribs sothat a mechanical hand can safely grab the removable bin withoutbreaking it or causing to flex inward to such a degree that the packagesinside are damaged or that they cannot be removed.

Another embodiment of the present invention provides for ananimal-resistant device. This embodiment incorporates a latch thatanimals cannot operate, but that humans and handicapped humans canoperate. The latch prevents animals from entering the package orenvelope chambers. In the event that an animal gains access to thecompartments, all wiring may be protected by metal or hard plastic toprotect it from any damage that an animal may cause.

The container may include a heating element which may be controlled sothat it is only activated when the battery 36 is near full charge.Further, heating elements may be placed above, beneath or within the PVarray, in order to melt snow or ice that is covering the PV array.Sensors can detect moisture, temperature, or a lack of light reachingthe PV array and activate the snow melting heating elements, or mayinitiate fans to evaporate liquids inside.

The container may include mounting clips on the exterior to allowadvertisement placards to be placed on the outside of the containers.Other features include wired or wireless communications equipmentinstalled with the container. Radio or other wireless signals may betransmitted by the container when it is full and no more deposits arepossible, or if the unit is broken or being vandalized. Further, thecontainer can report on conditions including battery charge, cyclecounts etc. The container can also receive signals, including commandsto immediately perform tasks such as changing the display or audiomessage. The containers may also report conditions by indicator lightswhich may indicate if the unit is full or malfunctioning. Such indicatorlights allow the containers to be inspected from a distance (such asthrough binoculars) to allow service personnel to determine whether itis necessary to make a service trip to the container.

Although solar power is disclosed as a source of power for the presentinvention, other sources of power are within the scope of the invention.This includes windmill or waterwheel generators located proximate thecontainer, or located at an optimal location for collecting power.Alternatively, a generator with a hand or foot crank may be positionedwith the container, with instructions inviting users of the container tocrank the handle or pedal several times to help store energy. For suchgenerators, whether by windmill, waterwheel or human, alternative energygeneration means and energy storage means may be used, for examplepumping air into a pressure tank for driving a pneumatic motor, windingup a spring mechanism, or a pulley system, the present invention isgeared to be energy efficient, and to run off stored energy.

Although the invention has been shown and described with respect toillustrative embodiments thereof, various other changes, omissions andadditions in the form and detail thereof may be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention.

The compaction ram 70 is shown in the resting position above thecompaction chambers 78, FIG. 5. The illustrated embodiment includes atwo sided ram to improve compaction capability and to facilitate removalby decreasing weight of each load, FIG. 6. The chain drive sprocket 72,upon rotating, drives chain 74 forward, driving the attached compactionram 70 down, compacting the load. Alternatively, the compaction ram 70may move up or sideways, depending on the design of the system. Theremovable bin 78 includes a handle and wheels to roll smoothly in andout of the outer container 24. In one embodiment, the trash could bedeflected toward the rear of the trash compartment, under compaction ram70 to allow for more complete compaction. This would allow a longer timeperiod between compactions, reducing the amount of energy used by thedevice.

The storage battery 36 is located preferably at a low point in thecontainer to provide stability. The storage battery or batteries 36 canbe upsized or downsized for different climates, compaction demands, orfor or auxiliary functions, such as providing usable AC electricitythrough an inverter. The battery or batteries may also be storedseparately from the container. The electronics compartments arepreferably located in a weather-proof area 37 of the container.Electronic components can include a motor controller, battery chargingcontroller, user interface, and sensors, as will be described below. Theaccess door 26 to the electronics area 37 is key-lockable. Whenunlocked, the battery 36 will preferably be automatically disengaged.

In the illustrative embodiment, a deep cycle battery 36 is employed todrive a DC motor 76, FIG. 6. The motor 76 drives a chain 74, whichrotates sprockets rigidly connected to the unit 72, and which transmitsthe crushing force to the compaction ram 70. Alternatively, the motor 76may provide power to the chain drive 72 through a drive shaft and gears,including reduction gears, or one or more motors 70 may be directlyattached to the chain drive 72, or the motor or motors may be connectedvia reduction gears to chains or lead screws, which control the positionof the compaction ram. Alternatively, a hydraulic piston may be used tomove the compaction ram. In this embodiment, the motor is used to drivea fluid pump, which supplies pressure to the hydraulic cylinders to movethe ram. Optimally, the chain drive system can be made to use as fewsprockets and gears as possible to reduce friction in the system. Oneembodiment of the present invention uses two sprockets on each side witha vertical chain drive 72 to reduce frictional losses. The verticalchain drive 72 reduces operational resistance, increasing efficiency.

We claim:
 1. A storage container comprising: an enclosure comprising astorage compartment for receiving a plurality of packages; a supplycompartment for storing packaging materials, the supply compartmentcomprising an access door and an inventory sensor, wherein the inventorysensor is configured to detect a presence of packaging materialscontained within the supply compartment; and a controller electricallyconnected to a battery and the inventory sensor, wherein the controlleris configured to trigger the inventory sensor when an access door sensordetects the access door is in an open position.
 2. The storage containerof claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to skip anoperation when the battery is undercharged until the battery hasattained an adequate charge.
 3. The storage container of claim 1,wherein the controller is further configured to display a signalindicating a next collection of contents in the storage container. 4.The storage container of claim 1, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to disengage a transmitter to reduce energy use.
 5. Thestorage container of claim 1, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to disable unused circuits connected to the battery.
 6. Thestorage container of claim 1, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to regulate a battery charger, and disabling the batterycharger when solar power is insufficient to charge the battery.
 7. Thestorage container of claim 1, wherein electronic components in thestorage container are sealed from water to protect the electroniccomponents, wherein the electronic components comprise at least one ofthe battery, the controller, and a package sensor.
 8. The storagecontainer of claim 1, wherein a transmitter and a package sensor arepowered from a solar energy that is converted into electric power. 9.The storage container of claim 1, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to track voltage and battery performance over a period oftime, and wherein the controller is configured to generate a signal ifat least one of battery power and solar power is insufficient.
 10. Amethod comprising: collecting solar energy via a photovoltaic panelconnected to a storage container, wherein the photovoltaic panel ispositioned to be exposed to sunlight and convert sunlight into electricpower; and triggering an inventory sensor in the storage container whenan access door sensor associated with an access door to a supplycompartment detects that the access door is in an open position, whereinthe inventory sensor is configured to detect a presence of packagingmaterials contained within the supply compartment and is powered by theelectric power from the photovoltaic panel.
 11. The method of claim 10,further comprising skipping an operation when a battery is underchargeduntil the battery has attained an adequate charge.
 12. The method ofclaim 10, further comprising displaying a signal indicating a nextcollection of contents in the storage container.
 13. The method of claim10, further comprising disengaging a transmitter to reduce energy use.14. The method of claim 10, further comprising disabling unused circuitsconnected to a battery.
 15. The method of claim 10, further comprisingregulating a battery charger, and disabling the battery charger whensolar power is insufficient to charge a battery.
 16. The method of claim10, wherein electronic components in the storage container are sealedfrom water to protect the electronic components, wherein the electroniccomponents comprise at least one of a battery, a controller, and apackage sensor.
 17. The method of claim 10, wherein a transmitter and apackage sensor are powered from the solar energy that is converted intoelectric power.
 18. The method of claim 10, further comprising trackingvoltage and battery performance over a period of time, and wherein acontroller of the storage container is configured to generate a signalif at least one of battery power and solar power is insufficient.
 19. Astorage container comprising: a processor; a control component; and acomputer-readable storage medium having stored therein instructionswhich, when executed by the processor, cause the processor and thecontrol component to perform operations comprising: collecting solarenergy via a photovoltaic panel, wherein the photovoltaic panel ispositioned to be exposed to sunlight and convert sunlight into electricpower; and triggering an inventory sensor when an access door sensorassociated with an access door to a supply compartment detects that theaccess door is in an open position, wherein the inventory sensor ispowered by the electric power and is configured to detect a presence ofpackaging materials contained within the supply compartment.
 20. Thestorage container of claim 19, wherein the computer-readable storagemedium stores additional instructions which, when executed by theprocessor, cause the processor to perform a further operationcomprising: skipping an operation when a battery is undercharged untilthe battery has attained an adequate charge.